A brief history of KTM motorcycles

The brand that would become KTM as it is today began in 1934, when Austrian engineer Hans Trunkenpolz opened a metalworking shop, naming the business Kraftfahrzeuge Trunkenpolz Mattighofen. The first motorcycle – the 98cc R100 – did not roll off the production line for another 17 years.

By 1953, the company was producing three motorcycles per day and had participated in its first motorsport event, the Gaisberg competition, where it took the top podium place. Just a year later the 1000th KTM machine was completed and the manufacturer marked the milestone with a first place in the Austrian 125 national championship.

The production of the first KTM racing motorcycle began in 1959, marking the start of an incredible motorsport career for the manufacturer. Racer Erwin Lechner began using the motorcycle, racking up a series of wins in offroad competitions. A landmark new model followed in 1966 – the 250cc Penton Six Days Motocross bike, which went on to win the Austrian national championship with rider Manfred Klerr.

KTM continued to develop revolutionary motorcycles, and by 1974 had a 42-strong range – this grew to 43 later the same year with the arrival of the eponymous KTM Hobby III.

The company’s reach grew broader than ever in 1984, when it began manufacturing radiators used by competitors including Suzuki. The decade also saw the 100,000th engine come off the production line and the introduction of a 500cc liquid-cooled model, capable of producing more than 50bhp.

KTM as it is today – KTM Sportmotocycle GmbH – was formed in 1992 when, under a new management team, the company introduced a new Hard Enduro model and a new design of motorcycle.

To date, the company has more than 130 titles to its name, including world championships, Dakar victories and more. It continues to create innovative new machines and recently broke into the streetbike sector, with a variety of finely crafted sporting and adventure touring machines for use on the road.

The range of KTM motorcycles

MX

KTM produces a whole range of motocross machines, from 50cc models which are the perfect launchpad into the range, right up to the powerful KTM 450 SX-F, with a water-cooled four-stroke engine.

Endurance motorbikes are one of the things KTM is known for. The light 125 EXC is an ideal starter bike, but for those who really want to push the limit, nothing beats the four-stroke 690 Enduro R. The range spans more than a dozen bikes, with a level to suit all aspiring enduro riders.

Freeride

The freeride range offers super-light machines with beautiful handling which provide a perfect entry point to enduro riding. With both a motor-driven and electric version, the Freeride is the very latest in motorcycle technology.

Supermoto

Built to do everything you want them to, KTM’s supermotos are the ultimate in on-and-off road riding. These mean machines start with the 450 SMR – a true thoroughbred racing machine – and range right up to the 990 Supermoto T.

Travel

KTM’s adventure bikes will go as far as you want to push them. Built for ultimate long distance rides, the motorcycles come in Adventure, Adventure R and Supermoto T versions and all have a large, powerful engine to keep you going.

Pared down and powerful, KTM’s naked models are fun, exciting and built to perform. The road bikes stand out in their sector and are available with engine power to suit every rider, from 200cc right up to 990.

KTM has entered the superbike sector in style, with a series of sumptuous machines capable of delivering the speed, handling and lightness you’d expect. Huge engines and superb delivery place these machines right at the top of their game.

125

Every rider starts somewhere – and there is no better place to start than the renowned KTM Duke 125. Ideal for anyone putting their feet on the pegs for the first time, the 125 Duke is an all-rounder which encapsulates all of the brand’s qualities.

Sport ATV

Accompanying KTM’s range of motorcycles are two four-wheel drive off-roaders, the 525 XC ATV and the 505 SX ATV – the ideal way to do motocross on four wheels.

Why choose a KTM

KTM machines cater for the needs of all riders, from a junior just starting out, to a motocross veteran who wants a powerful, exciting machine to take him right across the world. Its motorsport heritage is underscored by its collection of awards – and the prizes just keep on coming.

While the KTM name is synonymous with motocross, it also offers so much more. Taking a closer look at the brand offers a chance to explore its stunning superbikes and powerful road bikes.

A KTM is the perfect bike for any rider with adventure in their soul – age and ability is no barrier.

How Bennetts provide motorcycle insurance for your KTM

Bennetts understands that a key concern when insuring your KTM motorcycle is competitive pricing. We are a motorcycle insurance specialist, and have access to a panel of seven insurance underwriters, to provide our best value KTM motorcycle insurance – no matter what model you ride.

How to get a quote for your KTM motorcycle

Bennetts understands that a key concern when insuring your KTM motorcycle is competitive pricing. We search our panel of insurers to find you our best price for the cover you need.

Simply complete our online form or call our dedicated customer service team on 0330 018 7990, who are on hand to find our best deal for you.